What is the typical distance of the Moon at apogee?

The distance of the Moon at apogee, which is the point in its orbit that is farthest from Earth, is indeed approximately 406,712 km. This value is significant because it highlights the variation in the Moon's distance from Earth due to its elliptical orbital path. At apogee, the gravitational forces between the Earth and the Moon are at their weakest, which can influence both tidal patterns and lunar visibility from Earth.

Understanding that the Moon's distance can fluctuate is important in the context of celestial mechanics and hydrography, especially when considering factors like tidal measurements, which can affect hydrographic surveys. Knowing the precise distance at apogee allows for more accurate predictions and assessments when calculating tidal ranges and effects in coastal regions.